Frequently Asked Questions
Breastmilk is the most important gift that you can give your premature infant.
Why is my breastmilk best?
The milk you provide is something only you can give your premature baby. Your breastmilk contains invaluable nutrients and immune factors that help your baby grow and develop well. Your milk also helps protect your baby while his/her immune system is still developing. Premature babies get extra benefits from mom's breastmilk, including decreasing their risk for a serious infection in the intestines called necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).
How do I make and provide breastmilk to my baby?
Breastfeeding is different when you have a premature baby. Premature babies are not strong enough to feed at the breast, so they receive expressed breastmilk instead. Breastmilk is expressed with the help of a breast pump.
We highly recommend pumping as soon after birth as you are able. Your bedside nurse will help you get started pumping as soon as you are ready. Frequent pumping (every two to three hours) will mimic the frequency of a newborn's feeding pattern and promote a good milk supply.
Where do I get a breast pump?
There will be a pump at your baby's bedside for you to use in the hospital. If you do not have a pump at home yet, your nurse can contact the social worker to help you get a pump at little or no cost to you. You will need a breast pump at home by the time you are discharged from the hospital.
Why can't I just use donor breastmilk?
Your fresh milk is best for your baby. Donor human milk must be pasteurized for safety — pasteurization kills the infection-fighting live cells. It is a good bridge when a mother is actively pumping and trying to increase her own milk supply, but it is not an equal substitute.
Where can I pump at the hospital?
At UAB, you are able to stay 24/7 in your baby's room. We encourage you to pump at your baby's bedside. Being closer to your baby while pumping can increase the amount of milk you produce. There are also lactation rooms available for pumping.
How can I learn more about breastfeeding, how to store my milk, and what to do if I have a problem?
A lactation consultant will automatically meet you after your baby is born to help guide and support you through your breastfeeding and pumping journey. The lactation consultant will provide you with a larger packet that has information about the benefits of breastfeeding, increasing your milk volume, using a breast pump, hand expression, and storing your milk.
The lactation consultant will also be able to answer your questions about breastfeeding and pumping. If you'd like to speak with a lactation consultant, please notify your bedside nurse, or call 205-975-8334.
Need to talk to someone right now? Call the lactation team at 205-975-8334.
Two quick reads while you wait
Providing Milk Benefits Your Own Health
A short handout on the health benefits pumping and providing milk offers mothers themselves.
Download PDFWhy Milk Matters for Your Premature Baby
A short handout on why breastmilk matters so much for premature babies specifically.
Download PDF